From the very beginning of time there's been stories. We live each day through the stories we've heard, the ones we've experienced, and the hint of stories to come. Why not share these stories with your students? I'm elated to know that I can use this blog to excite you about the infinite ways you can incorporate story into your classroom, your library, your life. Why not begin with memories from your childhood or family time around a campfire. A campfire (real or virtual) is a way to open up the door to lore. Inevitably, what always happens around a campfire? (thinking pause) Right, stories just naturally begin. Terry Smyth has passed his Campfire Ambience on to you. Listen and stir up some tales.

Virtual Campfire Activities:1. Engage your students right off the bat without giving any instructions except to take it all in. Proceed by setting the mood by rubbing your hands together and asking everyone to move closer to the fire for a story. What makes up a good story around a campfire? We need a beginning, a middle, and an end. We can't forget the problem to the story, etc. Now, tell your tale, modeling an easy tale of your choice. You could then divide the students up into smaller groups to pull from their background knowledge stories that they know. You might want to set your boundaries on appropriate types of tales.

2.Writing Activity: Often times, we enjoy creating a Writing Camp of sorts, probably right before the students take their state writing tests - ugh! Why not include this virtual fire for one of your writing stations. You could have free writing taking place in which the students choose what ever they would like to write, or have some prompts ready to go that would engage all the learners. Here's a few examples:a. Write about a time you got lost. Don't forget to add detail and description. b. Write about a funny or ackward time when you went to camp. Don't forget to add detail and description.